Back in 1980 a group of friends, with a wrench in one hand and a beer in the other, created the Early Iron Car Club. These guys love cars and wanted to put together a show that would display the craft of hot rodding.

The party starts Friday Night in Cole Park with food, drink, music, and friends. We love giving our car sponsors and rodders a chance to get to know each other. The festivities start at 4:30 pm, winding down around 9:00 pm when the nitro dragsters will light up the sky!

Pinstriping, popularized by Andrew Mack with the development of the first pinstripe brush in 1865 and made popular by the likes of Von Dutch and Ed (Big Daddy) Roth in the 50’s. It has now blown up into an amazing Hot Rod artform that you see on most hot rods today. Join us in celebrating this artform by bidding, buying and watching these top pinstripers from all over the country! Some as far as Ohio and Texas, all here to help us support the craft and the charity designated by Early Iron. Be sure to bring some money to place your bid and take home this beautiful art for your home or garage!

Vintage Nitro, brings the sweet smell of nitro-methane and a rumble to your soul. Join us in celebrating the history of hot rodding with the addition of nostalgic nitro cars. Watch these awe-inspiring drag cars “light the candles”, not once, but three times during the festival. SLV Early Iron Festival is pleased to bring these amazing cars for you and your family to enjoy.

Don’t miss the Ladies Tea. For years, the Ladies Tea has brought a bit of sophistication to the Early Iron Festival with amazing fashion, pastries, and tea to break up the day. Also, don’t forget about the Scavenger Hunt. This exciting race (at your own pace, of course) wanders through downtown giving you a chance to shop and enjoy Alamosa.

The Saturday Night Banquet is not to be missed. Featuring Johnny R’s very own recipes, this is your chance to visit with old and new friends, and win prizes including an engine, transmission, and up to $3,700 in cash. Be sure to register early as tickets sell out fast! Only those pre-registered will qualify for the $1,000 drawing.

Slow Cruise, takes you back to the days of dragging Main. Cruise your classic vehicle down the historic downtown streets of Alamosa. Just want to watch? No problem. Join us for live music and other downtown festivities!